The distinction between British grey and U.S. gray developed 20c. The noun is c.1200, from the adjective. Gray as figurative for "Southern troops in the U.S. Civil War" is first recorded 1863, in reference to their uniform color. Expression the gray mare is the better horse in reference to households ruled by wives is recorded from 1540s. The verb is 1610s (with an isolated instance from late 14c.). Related: Grayed; graying.

Example Sentences for greyer

Olive still thought him very like his brother, an older and greyer Jean.

Her hair was greyer, too, and there were dark rings under her eyes.

The smoke ascending from the waterworks was no greyer than the day.

The other has greyer, more mischievous eyes, and a smaller mouth.

Greek valonia is greyer in colour, and contains 26 % to 30 % of tannin.

In these hares the females are larger and greyer in colour than the males.

Herr Mack met me in the courtyard, greyer still, more hollow-eyed.

A tree is most green at the prominent parts, and greyer at the top and sides.